My parents drove up from Mississippi on Sunday, spent Sunday night in Charlotte with my brother, and then headed over here on Monday afternoon. My brother is going to be driving over himself this evening (he had to work today), and my sister is flying in tonight. I’m very relieved that we’ll have everyone coming to us for Christmas, rather than having to travel ourselves. Flying with a toddler sucks, I did it last month, and I’m really not eager to repeat the experience anytime soon.

In other news, Catie is much better from her asthma attack, but she’s still a bit grouchy and congested. But she was super-excited to see her Mimi and Pop-Pop when they arrived yesterday, and she’s been giving both of them lots of hugs and cuddles. She’s also been showing off all of the language skills that she’s acquired in the past month – naming (and signing!) all of the various colors that she spots around the house, and using all of her Christmas terminology: snowman, Santa, reindeer, etc. Needless to say, they are mighty impressed. They already thought she was a genius, of course, because that’s what grandparents are supposed to do, but it’s funny to see her try to show off for their benefit.

The downside is that the grandparents are not allowed to tell her “no,” ever, under any circumstances. Today we went to the grocery store, and my dad pushed the cart while Catie rode in the front. She started to try to stand up in the cart (which she knows she isn’t allowed to do), and my dad said, “No, sweetie, you need to sit down.” Her lower lip started to tremble, and she burst into tears. I’ve fussed at her in way harsher tones, and she just laughs at me. But when it comes from the grandparents? THAT is another story altogether. Pretty funny to witness how differently she reacts to them rather than me.

Not much else going on, just getting ready for the big day. I don’t know if I’ll have time to update again before Christmas, but I hope y’all have a great holiday!